Lower Shabelle, 18 January 2026 – The Deputy Governor for Political Affairs of Lower Shabelle Region, Mr. Abuubakar Abdalla Bashir, and the new Marka District Commissioner, Mr. Adanli Ahmed Mohamed, today paid a courtesy visit to AUSSOM Battle Group XLIII Headquarters at Ceeljaale Forward Operating Base (FOB) in the Lower Shabelle region.
The Battle Group XLIII Commander, Colonel Robert Koch, who welcomed the delegation, praised the leadership of Ceeljaale and Marka district for the strong cooperation since Battle Group XLIII took over security responsibilities in Lower Shabelle.
Colonel Koch noted that close cooperation between civil authorities, the local community, the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), and the Somali National Army (SNA) has greatly improved security in the area.
“We have not registered any major security incidents in Marka District due to good coordination with the Somali National Army,” Colonel Koch said.
He highlighted the cordial relationship with the former district commissioner and pledged continued cooperation with the new leadership to ensure peace and stability in Marka District and Lower Shabelle.
The Battle Group Commander also informed the district leaders that AUSSOM troops, in coordination with the SNA and other security agencies, are fully prepared to degrade Al-Shabaab’s capability within Lower Shabelle. He emphasised the importance of constant coordination between district authorities and commanders on the ground.
Colonel Koch also thanked the local community for their continued cooperation, particularly for the timely sharing of information on suspicious activities.
District Commissioner Adanli Ahmed Mohamed thanked Colonel Koch for the warm reception and pledged full support to UPDF and AUSSOM forces in Lower Shabelle. He appealed to the local population to continue supporting AUSSOM troops and work closely with the security agencies to ensure stability.
Similarly, Deputy Governor for Political Affairs Abuubakar Abdalla Bashir commended the strong relationship between AUSSOM troops and the local community, noting that this collaboration has contributed to peace and stability in the region.The visit was attended by all officers and heads of departments of Battle Group XLIII.
